LUCAS LEIVA is determined not to be pushed back on the periphery by Liverpool’s anticipated transfer spree this summer.

Club owners Fenway Sports Group have already intimated they are prepared to spend heavily to strengthen the squad and help propel the Anfield outfit back into the Champions League.

It means many senior players could find their futures under threat by the expected influx of incomings that will follow the January arrivals of £58million duo Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez. Click here to follow us on Twitter for the latest Liverpool FC updates.

But having recently penned a new contract, Lucas believes he has demonstrated he deserves a regular starting place after winning over the doubters with his performances during the last 18 months.

“A new season is a new season, but I don’t think I would have signed a new contract if the club did not have a plan for me,” said the central midfielder. “I am just happy with the way I am playing.

“A lot of players have come already and I am still here, still playing, so that means that the club believes in my football and my qualities. I am just trying to play well.

“We will sign some players for next season that is for sure, but I think I am showing that I am capable of playing in the team all the time.”

Lucas made his 43rd appearance of the season in Saturday’s 5-0 romp against Birmingham City, with only Martin Skrtel and Pepe Reina having played more games.

And the Brazilian added: “Last season I think I played 46 games, but this season I am trying to take more responsibility than I did last season because some players left and I am trying to step up and to show my real quality.

“I am really confident and happy with the way I am playing and I just have to improve and next season fight for my place.”